The voice of European Civil Society – The EESC working for you How has the EESC made a difference? • Fighting for victims' rights in the EU • Protecting consumers and helping them realise their rights • Combatting poverty • Supporting business, growth and employment • Supporting SMEs and innovation • Migration • Development • Helping people with disabilities • Promoting Education and Social Inclusion How does the EESC work ? Georges Dassis, President of the EESC:"The European Economic and Social Committee is the house and the voice of organized civil society. Its ambition is to improve the daily lives of citizens." The EESC represents employers, workers and various interests, such as consumers, farmers, environmental groups and disabled associations. Through its expert opinions it ensures that EU policy-making is more representative and genuinely reflects the interests and needs of all European citizens. A voice for Civil Society Gonçalo Lobo Xavier, Vice-President of the EESC: "We represent the concerns of European citizens acting as the voice of civil society making sure that they get a chance to be heard." The EESC members themselves are not politicians but dedicated real-life experts from a variety of civil society organizations who give their independent and sound advice to European legislation. EESC members are not paid for their work. Most of their time is spent working within their own organisations in their home countries. Through their hands-on experience they shape EU legislation and policies to reflect the needs of EU citizens. Expert knowledge 350 members 28 member states Michael Smith, Vice-President of the EESC: "We listen to key stake holders and representatives of civil society and channel this collective expertise into European policy, making it better for EU citizens." The EESC communicates its opinions to the Council of the EU, the European Commission and the European Parliament who incorporate the input into vital EU legislation and policies. Listening to real people, influencing real policies, improving real people's lives. The voice of civil society working for you. voice of civil society working for you.